Building a strong running base is one of the most important steps you can take as a runner, whether you’re just starting out, coming back from an injury, or resetting after a big training cycle.

In this episode, I break down what base training is, why easy miles matter, and how long you should spend in this phase. You’ll learn the key goals of base building, how it sets you up for future success, and simple ways to approach your easy runs with confidence and avoid boredom!

If you’ve ever wondered why coaches talk so much about “easy miles,” or how slowing down now can lead to faster times later, this episode is for you.

Resources & Links:

Sign up for my free workshop: The Confident Runner Formula – 5 Secrets to Training for Your Next Race → https://mailchi.mp/4e4be7813bb9/confidentrunnerformula

Join the waitlist for 10K Your Way → https://mailchi.mp/154503d55d6e/10kyourway

To work with Coach Michelle, head to her website and click on Contact Me: https://www.mindful-marathon.com

Stay up to date with Coach Michelle's adventures by following Mindful Marathon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon

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The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider.

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Do you ever feel like you’re not a “real runner”? Maybe you think you’re too slow, need to run a certain distance, or have to look a certain way to belong on the pavement. I’ve been there too, and I’ve learned that these are just stories we tell ourselves that hold us back.

In this episode, I’m sharing the 5 most common running myths that stop beginners from starting or enjoying running, and the truth behind them. From pacing and speed, to walk breaks, distance, and body image, we’re busting these lies and giving you permission to take your first steps with confidence.

You’ll learn:

• Why you don’t need natural talent to start running

• How “fast” is relative and why speed isn’t the goal

• Why walking can be a smart part of training

• That you don’t need a race or to run a certain distance to be a runner

• How to embrace your body and mindset for consistent, joyful running

Listen now and leave these running myths behind!

Resources & Links:

Sign up for my free workshop: The Confident Runner Formula – 5 Secrets to Training for Your Next Race → https://mailchi.mp/4e4be7813bb9/confidentrunnerformula

Join the waitlist for 10K Your Way → https://mailchi.mp/154503d55d6e/10kyourway

To work with Coach Michelle, head to her website and click on Contact Me: https://www.mindful-marathon.com

Stay up to date with Coach Michelle's adventures by following Mindful Marathon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon

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The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider.

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Every runner starts somewhere, and for me, it started with just five minutes around the block.

In this episode, I’m sharing the story of how I went from a stressed-out new physician to crossing the finish line of my very first 5K. Whether you’re brand new to running or just getting back into it, you’ll hear the simple, sustainable steps that helped me build consistency, confidence, and joy in running.

You’ll learn:

• How to find your “why” so you stay motivated

• Why starting small is the smartest way to make progress

• How to pick a goal race that excites you

• The value of committing to your workouts, even when life is busy

• Where a coach can help you identify blind spots to avoid common mistakes

If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” to start running, this is your sign to take that first step.

Listen now and learn how to go from five minutes to your first finish line!

Resources & Links:

Sign up for my free workshop: The Confident Runner Formula – 5 Secrets to Training for Your Next Race → https://mailchi.mp/4e4be7813bb9/confidentrunnerformula

Join the waitlist for 10K Your Way → https://mailchi.mp/154503d55d6e/10kyourway

To work with Coach Michelle, head to her website and click on Contact Me: https://www.mindful-marathon.com

Stay up to date with Coach Michelle's adventures by following Mindful Marathon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon

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The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider.

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Curious about how to navigate running during pregnancy and after baby arrives? In this episode, Coach Michelle is joined by OB-GYN and mom of four, Dr. Carolyn Moyers, for a candid and informative conversation all about running through the seasons of motherhood.

We cover listener questions and key topics like: Safe ways to keep running while pregnant, the best gear for pregnancy and postpartum (bump supports, nursing bras, jogging strollers), how to return to running after childbirth, understanding diastasis recti and pelvic floor health, and navigating through ever-present mom guilt.

Whether you're expecting, postpartum, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for running with care and confidence.

You can find Dr. Carolyn at the links below: https://www.instagram.com/skywomenshealth/ https://www.instagram.com/drcarolynmoyers/

The Podcast Https://anchor.fm/skywomen

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If you are getting back into training after some time off (or after delivery!), download Coach Michelle's FREE 4-week Couch to Confidence Walk Plan to get started: https://mailchi.mp/73b2ee296291/walkplan

To work with Coach Michelle, head to her website and click on Contact Me: https://www.mindful-marathon.com

Follow Mindful Marathon on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon https://www.facebook.com/MindfulMarathon​

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The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider.

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What does a half Ironman teach you about running, racing, and doing hard things? In this episode, I’m recapping my experience at the Musselman 70.3, where I teamed up for the relay and coached my husband Tony to complete the full race.

I’m sharing the highs, the rough parts (hello, ocean-like waves!), and the key takeaways that apply to any distance or challenge: trusting your training, leaning into consistency, and keeping your mindset strong when things get tough.

Even if a 70.3 isn’t on your radar, the lessons apply to any challenge you may be facing. Whether you’re chasing a new distance, a PR, or simply showing up for life, this episode will inspire you to keep going when it matters most.

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To work with Coach Michelle, head to her website and click on Contact Me: https://www.mindful-marathon.com

Follow Mindful Marathon on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon https://www.facebook.com/MindfulMarathon​

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The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider.

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Join Coach Michelle Quirk and certified personal trainer Kayla Heimerman for a practical and encouraging conversation about why strength training is essential for runners. Kayla, also a group fitness instructor and avid runner, shares her favorite tips to help you get started and stick with a strength routine.

Whether you're training for your first 5K or your next marathon, this episode will give you easy, effective strategies to build strength, prevent injury, and support your running for the long haul.

You can connect with Kayla on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaylabee0418

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To work with Coach Michelle, head to her website and click on Contact Me: https://www.mindful-marathon.com

Follow Mindful Marathon on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon https://www.facebook.com/MindfulMarathon​

***

The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider.

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In this episode, Dr. Michelle Quirk sits down with Dr. Phil Pierorazio, Professor of Urology and host of the Operate with Zen podcast, for a powerful and honest conversation about physician wellness.

They explore how physical activity and mindfulness can be transformative tools in preventing burnout, especially in high-stress careers like medicine.

Dr. Pierorazio shares candid reflections from his personal and professional experience, along with this vital reminder: “Don’t neglect your health…That is the foundation of everything else you do.”

Whether you're a physician, runner, or someone simply trying to stay well while juggling life’s demands, this episode offers a grounding perspective on why prioritizing your well-being is not optional. It is essential.

Dr. Pierorazio is Professor and Chief of Urology at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in Philadelphia, where he is a Urologic Oncologist. https://www.pennmedicine.org/providers/phillip-pierorazio

He’s also the creator of the Operate with Zen podcast. You can listen to his podcast here: https://operatewithzen.buzzsprout.com

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To work with Coach Michelle, head to her website and click on Contact Me: https://www.mindful-marathon.com

Learn more about the Mindful Movement Retreat at https://www.mindful-marathon.com/capemayretreat and use discount code PODCAST100 for $100 off

Follow Mindful Marathon on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon https://www.facebook.com/MindfulMarathon​

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The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider.

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Running in the heat doesn’t have to feel miserable or dangerous. In this episode, I’m sharing my top tips for staying safe, strong, and mindful while training through the summer heat and humidity. Whether you’re preparing for a fall race or just trying to keep your routine going, these strategies will help you feel more confident (and a lot more comfortable) out there.

You’ll learn:

• Why running in the heat feels harder and how your body works to cool you down

• When and what to wear to stay cool and protected

• How to hydrate before, during, and after your runs (including how to estimate your sweat rate)

• The signs of heat-related illness, and when it’s time to stop or seek help

• What heat acclimatization actually does in your body (and why it makes your fall races feel easier!)

• Why it’s okay to slow down and how to train smart by effort, not pace

Every summer mile builds mental strength. You’ve got this!

What’s one thing you’re going to try on your next run? DM me or email your questions about running in the heat. I’d love to feature them in a future episode.

And if you enjoyed this episode, I’d be so grateful if you left a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and join our mindful running community.

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To work with Coach Michelle, head to her website and click on Contact Me: https://www.mindful-marathon.com

Learn more about the Mindful Movement Retreat at https://www.mindful-marathon.com/capemayretreat and use discount code PODCAST100 for $100 off

Follow Mindful Marathon on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon https://www.facebook.com/MindfulMarathon​

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The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider.

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